The conversation always comes back home when you talk to Corey Kispert for an extended period. Not only Edmonds. Not only Gonzaga. His description of Seattle is more like a living, breathing sports organism than a hometown.
The forward for the Washington Wizards is not hesitant to acknowledge the city’s significance to him or sports in general. Kispert doesn’t respond to the question of Seattle’s readiness for the NBA again in a hypothetical manner. He responds in a way that seems obvious.
“You got to see during the playoffs what kind of sports town Seattle is,” he said, referring to the Mariners’ electrifying postseason run. “The crowds, the energy, the passion – it was incredible. I was heartbroken when they didn’t make it. I was really behind those guys and loved watching them play.”
If you were watching those games, you have a clear understanding of what he’s talking about. T-Mobile Park seemed to be a city-wide revival rather than just a baseball stadium. Fans didn’t just show up; they were filled with urgency, yelling, chanting, hoping, and believing. The type of environment was what reminds you why Seattle’s loss to the Sonics still stings. That intensity never decreased. It was just redirected.
A City That Rallies Behind Its Teams
Kispert did not talk about the Mariners as though he were a detached observer. He resembled a fan who lived and died with every pitch.
“Hopefully, they can get the roster back together with the free agents and keep building,” he added. “I know that organization wants to push for bigger and better things. They had a great shot this year, just came up a little short. But I really believe in that team, and I think even better things are ahead.”
A current NBA player talking so passionately about a baseball team is rare, but it also feels very Seattle. Sports culture in the city is interconnected, almost communal. As one team gains momentum, the entire region follows suit.
The Mariners’ run was not solely about baseball success. It was a testament to the fact that Seattle is still one of the most vibrant sports cities in the country, and the craving for big-name moments hasn’t waned.
Why the NBA Fits the Moment
Imagine what an NBA team could do in a city with decades of basketball history, given the Mariners’ ability to ignite that sort of collective adrenaline. The Sonics did more than just disappear from the standings; they created a gap in the city’s identity.
Kispert sees it. Players see it. It is visible to fans.
The crowds are ready. Passion is built in. The infrastructure exists. Seattle’s other teams’ playoff moments only reinforce the argument.
Seattle doesn’t need to prove anything. The evidence persists throughout each season.
Kispert explains that the city’s sports heartbeat never stopped. It’s just waiting for the basketball to be plugged back in.